08/09/2013  Shatin  Race 1

On arrival at the Start, it was noted that BERNARD’S CHOICE had lost its left front plate. This plate was refitted. BERNARD’S CHOICE was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. MEGA was severely checked shortly after the start when crowded for room between SHARP PRINT and WAYFOONG TYCOON which shifted out abruptly despite the efforts of its rider. In this incident, SHARP PRINT was also crowded for room out onto the hindquarters of STEP HIGH which became unbalanced. From a wide barrier, GAIN MORE was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Despite being ridden along in the early stages, EPEE DE HUA failed to muster speed. At the 200 Metres, STEP HIGH and BERNARD’S CHOICE bumped as a result of STEP HIGH attempting to improve into tight running between BERNARD’S CHOICE and COSMO ONE. Passing the 200 Metres, N Pinna (MEGA) dropped his whip. Passing the 100 Metres, STEP HIGH was steadied when disappointed for running between BERNARD’S CHOICE and COSMO ONE which shifted out and away from FLYING SUPREME which itself was shifting ground. EPEE DE HUA, which was following, was hampered in consequence. Because of this incident, STEP HIGH was not able to be properly tested all the way to the finishing line. Throughout the race, JUST FOLLOW ME travelled wide and without cover. When questioned, N Pinna stated that he had been asked to ride MEGA in a midfield position if possible. He said after being badly hampered at the start, MEGA was obliged to travel at the rear of the field in the early stages. He said in an attempt to have MEGA positioned close to midfield as instructed, he shifted it away from the rail after the 1100 Metres in order to improve around runners in front. He added however that he was not able to find a position close to the rail and was obliged to race wide throughout the event. A veterinary inspection of GOOD SMILE and WAYFOONG TYCOON immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. BERNARD’S CHOICE, AMAZING ALWAYS and FLYING SUPREME were sent for sampling.